The proposal for a new homeless shelter behind the Human Services building was the focal point of the meeting, as Deputy Director Felicia Hobson and council members fielded questions and concerns from both residents and local officials. Hobson clarified that the facility is intended to operate as a 24-hour shelter, providing wrap-around services such as case management, mental health support, and assistance for substance use disorders. The shelter aims to address emergency homelessness issues, focusing on individuals facing domestic violence, mental health challenges, and substance abuse issues.

Local residents raised concerns about the shelter’s impact on community safety and the potential strain on emergency services. Questions were posed about the shelter’s proximity to schools and residential areas, with fears that the facility might lead to an influx of homeless individuals and related safety concerns. One resident articulated apprehensions about the safety of children in nearby schools, prompting assurances from the council that public safety would be a top priority, with security measures planned to mitigate any potential risks.

The council emphasized that the shelter would not accommodate families with children, directing such cases to existing partnerships for assistance. However, some residents questioned this policy, arguing that a supportive environment within the shelter would be safer for families than temporary accommodations like hotels. Concerns were also voiced about the shelter’s capacity, which is limited to 60 beds, and the process for accommodating late-night arrivals if the facility reaches full capacity.

Financial implications were another major concern, with residents questioning the long-term sustainability of the shelter and how potential increased demands on emergency services would be managed. One resident highlighted the absence of a binding contract guaranteeing service provision from the county, raising fears about future financial burdens on Westampton taxpayers. The council responded by stating that grants would be continuously sought to fund the shelter’s operations, while shared service agreements would be used to manage costs associated with emergency medical services.

The council also faced criticism for perceived shortcomings in communication and transparency regarding the shelter’s development. Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of prior community engagement and information about the shelter’s construction, with some feeling blindsided by the shelter’s swift implementation. In response, council members acknowledged the need for improved communication and committed to keeping the public informed as the project progresses.

In addition to discussing the homeless shelter, the council addressed concerns regarding a shared service agreement with East Hampton for emergency medical services and fire protection. Participants raised questions about the agreement’s terms, particularly the provision of standby services and record-keeping responsibilities. There was a call for clarity in the agreement’s language and concerns about Westampton’s inability to unilaterally terminate the agreement if necessary.

The meeting also touched upon staffing and budgetary issues within the township. Questions were raised about the necessity of hiring a confidential assistant in the administration, with some residents suggesting the funds could be better allocated. Concerns about police staffing levels were also discussed, with suggestions to add more officers to the budget due to the township’s growing population.